How are spent lead-acid batteries (SLABs) currently managed and how will this final rule change these practices?
Currently, SLABs are either recycled or disposed. Battery Council International (BCI) reported a 99.2 percent domestic SLAB recycle rate for the years 1999 – 2003. SLABs are one of the most recycled consumer products. When a spent battery is collected, it is sent to a recycler where the lead, plastic and battery acids can be reclaimed and sent to a new battery manufacturer. Although most domestic SLABs are recycled in the US, some are exported to Canada, Mexico, and other countries. EPA is amending the RCRA regulations for SLABs specified in 40 CFR part 266 subpart G by requiring notification and consent for the export of SLABs to provide greater assurance that SLABs are sent to countries and reclamation facilities in those countries that can manage the SLABs in an environmentally sound manner. The notification and consent requirements are intended to: (1) reduce potential risk to human health and the environment, including potential risk from the transboundary movement of pollution fr
